The Pros and Cons of Aluminum vs. Steel Body Panels Frame: Which is Best for Your Car?
Steel vs Aluminum Body Panels Frame
When it comes to body panels frames, steel and aluminum are the two most popular materials used in modern cars. Steel is known for its durability and strength while aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant. But which one should you choose when buying a new car?
The Tesla Model 3 uses both steel and aluminum for its body panels frame. The doors, hood, wheel wells, and other exterior parts are made of aluminum while the frame is constructed from steel. This combination provides the best of both worlds – strong protection against damage, yet light enough to maintain good fuel economy.
In order to protect your car from rusting, many manufacturers use an electrolytic bath during production. Tesla does the same with their vehicles, providing full body and frame protection against corrosion. For additional protection, you can apply mud guards or plastic film on the bottom section of rear doors.
If you want to take extra steps to keep your car rust-free, you may consider purchasing Funderud Antirust’s rustproof kit. It includes rust proofing spray as well as some tools that will help you protect vulnerable areas such as wheelwells and seams from potential starting points for rust. However, this product is only available in Norway at the moment so if you live outside the country, you won't be able to get it shipped to you.
Overall, choosing between steel and aluminum body panels frame depends on your needs and preferences. If you're looking for maximum protection against damage and corrosion, then steel might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if weight is more important than strength, then aluminum would be a better choice.In the end, it's up to you to decide which material is best for your car. Consider all of the factors mentioned above and make an informed decision that will keep your vehicle safe and secure for years to come.
Does the Tesla Model 3 have any rust?
Many of the body panels (doors, hood) are aluminium, but most of the frame is steel. The wheelwells have a lot of seams from a bunch of steel plates joined together and each of those seams is a potential starting point for rust.
Is there any way to prevent rust on my Model 3?
Tesla does the same treatment to the full body and frame of the car. You can install mud guards to prevent rocks hitting that area. A plastic film sold by Tesla can be added to protect the bottom section of the rear doors. Additionally, Funderud Antirust offers a rustproofing kit which includes rust proofing spray and some tools.
Is FluidFilm safe to use on my Model 3?
Fluid Film is petroleum based and might damage the plastic high voltage wiring jackets under the car, so it is not recommended.
Is additional rustproofing treatments necessary?
Modern cars are usually dipped into a bath for rust proofing using electrolysis, so additional treatments are generally not necessary. However, if you live in a high-humidity area or near the ocean, it may be beneficial to get additional rustproofing treatments.